Howdy! My name is Truman McGee and I am very excited to join the CSC team as the year-round Program Director. I am originally from Chicago and graduated from Earlham College in 2017 with a degree in Environmental Studies. I had the opportunity to study both Environmental Sociology and Environmental Policy in college which had a significant impact on my environmental and educational ethos. I also led different multi-day backpacking trips in college that ranged from the High Uintas Wilderness in Utah to Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.
My main goal in working in environmental and outdoor education is to create safe, accessible, and exciting opportunities for our participants. I believe that our program at CSC is unique in providing that opportunity for both our seasonal counseling staff and our campers.
During May of 2018, I arrived at the Red Creek Valley to work as a Head Counselor and got assigned to Silver Spruce. I greatly enjoyed the out-of-camp expeditions and our in-camp activities. I considered the counseling as a bit of “second-degree fun”. After some reflection, I realized that the summer had more of an impact on me than I had previously thought. While working at a summer camp felt very challenging at times, I was deeply grateful for the opportunity to help our campers realize their potential and work through tough times. I returned the following year as the Outpost Coordinator.
In between my summers at camp I have had a few different jobs. I spent several long winters as a dogsled guide and sled dog trainer in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. In the fall of 2019, I co-led a four-month study abroad program in northern India focused on Tibetan Studies. And most recently, I worked as Youth Crew Leader for the Southwest Conservation Corps doing trail work in the Four Corners area.
I am returning to camp as an administrative member so that I can help mentor and support our seasonal staff. A few of my goals for the upcoming 2022 summer are improving professional development opportunities for staff, increasing emotional and mental health support for campers, and streamlining some of our backcountry (expedition) systems. If you are reading this, I look forward to meeting you next summer! Thanks for tuning into my blog post!
